Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a hearty, flavorful chicken soup. This recipe is a delightful blend of spices, tender chicken, and hearty beans that come together in a satisfying bowl perfect for any occasion. Featuring a touch of spice from jalapeños and a creamy texture from cream cheese, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 yellow onion, diced
1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1½ teaspoons kosher salt
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
15 ounces canned fire-roasted diced tomatoes
15 ounces canned black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup frozen corn
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This chicken soup recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also provides a warm, comforting meal that can be customized with optional toppings like tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. Enjoy this delicious and filling dish any day of the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Jalapeño
Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and jalapeño pepper; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Add Spices
Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and kosher salt. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Vegetables
Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, black beans, and frozen corn.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 5: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside until cool enough to handle. Shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
Step 6: Melt the Cream Cheese
Return the shredded chicken to the pot and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir, cover the pot, and simmer for 5 minutes. Then, stir again until the cream cheese is fully melted and incorporated into the soup.
Step 7: Serve the Soup
Serve the soup hot, garnished with tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Spiciness Level
Adjust the amount of jalapeño pepper based on your spice preference. You can also add more chili powder for extra heat.
Note 2: Cream Cheese Alternatives
If desired, you can substitute cream cheese with sour cream for a different flavor and texture.
Note 3: Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat.
Note 4: Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Sauteing
Sauteing is used to cook the onion and jalapeño pepper until they are softened. This technique enhances their flavors and prepares them as a base for the soup.
Seasoning
Adding spices such as cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder during the sautéing process helps to build a deep and rich flavor profile.
Simmering
Simmering the ingredients together allows the flavors to meld. It also ensures that the chicken cooks through evenly, making it tender and easy to shred.
Shredding
Shredding the cooked chicken using two forks creates bite-sized pieces that can easily combine with the other ingredients in the soup.
Incorporating Cream Cheese
Adding cubed cream cheese at the end of the cooking process helps to create a creamy texture in the soup. It should be stirred in until fully melted and incorporated.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?
Yes, you can use other soft cheeses like sour cream or Greek yogurt, but this may change the flavor and texture of the soup.
Is it possible to make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stove before serving.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add more jalapeño, include spicy diced tomatoes, or add hot sauce to increase the heat level.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook this recipe in a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients except for the cream cheese, and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the cream cheese before serving.
Conclusion
This creamy chicken soup combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it a delightful meal option. The combination of spices, combined with the creaminess of the cream cheese, results in a satisfying dish that pleases the palate. Perfect for any occasion, it’s not only a warming dish but also a nutritious one, packed with ingredients that contribute to a well-rounded meal.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spicy Chicken Quesadillas
Use the soup as a filling for quesadillas, combining shredded chicken with cheese, and serve with salsa on the side.
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Incorporate some cooked pasta into the soup for a heartier meal, adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese as a finishing touch.
Chicken Tacos
Shred the chicken and serve it in taco shells, topped with fresh cilantro and diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
Southwest Chicken Salad
Use the ingredients as a base for a salad, mixing the shredded chicken and beans with greens, avocado, and a tangy dressing.
Chicken Chili
Transform the soup into a chili by adding diced bell peppers and adjusting the spices to taste, serving it with cornbread for a complete meal.
